Lasagne Bolognese, also known simply as Bolognese lasagna, is a classic Italian pasta dish that consists of layers of lasagne noodles, a rich meat sauce known as Bolognese sauce (Ragu alla Bolognese), béchamel sauce, and grated cheese. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that has become popular worldwide. Here’s a basic recipe for making Lasagne Bolognese:
Ingredients:
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or a combination of beef and pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and nutmeg to taste
For the Lasagne:
- Lasagne noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground meat and cook until it’s browned and crumbled.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using). Add the bay leaf, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for at least 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the bay leaf when done.
- Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for a couple of minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
- Gradually add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Assemble the Lasagne:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, start by layering some Bolognese sauce on the bottom.
- Add a layer of cooked lasagne noodles on top of the sauce.
- Pour some béchamel sauce over the noodles and sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of béchamel sauce and a generous topping of cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Serve:
- Let the lasagne cool slightly before serving. Slice and enjoy your delicious Lasagne Bolognese!
Lasagne Bolognese is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners. It’s a labor of love, but the flavors and layers of goodness make it worth the effort.